Frequently Asked Questions
How often are meetings?
Pack meetings (all grades together) meet once a month at Westchase Elementary for awards and exciting activities. Dens (grade-specific groups) meet an additional 1-2 times per month to work on Adventures (fun & educational lessons on a wide range of skill sets).
How does my child earn awards?
Scouts will work with their den to earn adventure awards every month. Scouts can also work on adventures at home. Pack 46 recognizes scouts at monthly pack meetings for awards earned. Your scout will likely earn AT LEAST one award each month in Cub Scouts.
Can siblings participate in campouts and activities?
Yes! Cub Scouts is a family program so siblings and parents are welcome to attend meetings and activities. Everything we do is designed with the entire family in mind!
How often do you camp?
We organize one Pack campout in the Fall and one in the Spring which are both covered in Pack dues. Our first campout is Spook-O-Ree, a Halloween-themed campout in October at Camp Brorein in Odessa! We also offer additional campouts throughout the year organized by Den Leaders or the Greater Tampa Bay Area Scout Council.
We’re not really a “camping family.”
Well then you’ll love our campouts! We design every campout as if everyone is a first-time camper, and the entire family is invited! Campouts are typically nearby, action-packed with age-appropriate activities, and you don’t have to worry about cooking since the Pack 46 cook crew prepares the BEST food anywhere in the woods!
Does my child need a scout uniform?
Not for the open house, but if you decide to join, every scout in Pack 46 is encouraged to wear the Scout uniform! Uniforms can be purchased at the local Scout store or on scoutshop.org. Your Den Leader will guide you on what to purchase.
My kids are in too many activities. What is the time commitment?
Scouting is a program for all kids no matter their interests or hobbies. That’s why scouts have become presidents, professional athletes, rocket scientists, CEOs, conservationists, and so many other changemakers as adults! We are a pack full of busy families so our activities are flexible, attendance is never mandatory, and adventure award requirements can be made up on your own time if meetings are missed.
Since when can girls join Cub Scouts?
Since 2018. Well, sisters of boys have been participating in Cub Scouts for 100 years, but in 2018 they finally made it official that girls could sign up and earn awards just like the boys. We are co-ed Pack and our girls thrive on the adventure of Scouting!
What kind of service will my child participate in?
Pack 46 emphasizes community service and you’ll see our scouts serving throughout the community including at the Westchase Food Drive, Westchase Santa Parade, the American Legion, and anywhere else we can be helpful.
Who are the leaders?
Pack 46 is led by a dedicated group of volunteer parents and leaders who are passionate about Scouting’s impact in the lives of kids. Registered volunteer leaders are background-checked & trained to deliver the Scouting program, however all parents are encouraged to help in some way throughout the year.
How much does it cost?
Pack 46 keeps costs as low as possible for scout families. First you’ll pay a National BSA fee of $118 for a year’s membership in the program, then you’ll pay Pack 46 dues of $130 per semester (Fall & Spring) which covers most activities. Additional costs to expect are a uniform and optional outings. We believe scouting is for every youth regardless of financial ability, so scholarships and fundraisers are available to offset the costs. More information on costs can be found at www.pack46.com/join
What if my child is too old for Cub Scouts?
Scouting America’s program for middle and high schoolers is called ScoutsBSA where adventure is taken to a whole new level. Local Westchase troops for ScoutsBSA include Troop 46 (boys), Troop 6419 (girls), and Troop 246 (boys). More information on Troops can be found at www.beascout.org
Where is the packing list for our next campout?
Right here: Spook-o-ree 2025 Camping List
